Created by
Hohner Musikinstrumente GmbH & Co. KG, German, founded 1857
Used by
Williamson, Sonny Boy II, American, 1912 - 1965
Date
ca. 1940
Medium
brass (alloy), copper, metal and wood
Dimensions
H x W x D: 1 × 6 5/16 × 11/16 in. (2.5 × 16 × 1.8 cm)
Description
A brass Hohner Marine Band harmonica owned and played by Sonny Boy Williamson II.
A hand-length metallic harmonica featuring a reddish brown comb with engraved embossing’s on both sides the instrument’s face. The comb has 14 chamber holes. On one side of the harmonica are the founding figure’s bust engraving framed by crossed leaves and “MADE IN GERMANY”. Beside it in light embossing is “MARINE BAND” with “M. Hohner” engraved at the bottom like a signature.
On the reverse side of the harmonica are multiple circular embossed engravings representing the history of the manufacturer. The two handed “GESETZL./GESCH” logo, is featured in the middle. On either side of the iconic logo are circular embossing’s depicting harps, eagles, wreaths, plaques, and years (1983 to 1937), with “MADE IN GERMANY / FRABRIQUE EN ALLEMAGNE” engraved at the bottom, below the M. Hohner embossing.
Place made
Germany, Europe
Place used
Helena, Phillips County, Arkansas, United States, North and Central America
Classification
Musical Instruments
Type
harmonicas
Topic
Blues (Music)
Instrumentalists (Musicians)
Music
Musicians
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
Object number
2021.59.2
Restrictions & Rights
No known copyright restrictions
Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
GUID
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5b3bdc9df-4eaa-4f2a-b319-f84df37ed144

Cataloging is an ongoing process and we may update this record as we conduct additional research and review. If you have more information about this object, please contact us at NMAAHCDigiTeam@si.edu

Share this page